Stop Drafts in 4 Easy Steps

Sew a simple draft stopper to eliminate the cold chill that comes with the winter season.

Winter hits full force for those of us in northern climates, but even those closer to the equator might experience the occasional cold front. While you’re hunkered down in the house, perhaps scheming for the upcoming growing season, this simple DIY draft stopper will be a savior, especially if you have a drafty old farmhouse like I do.

This sewing project was featured on the Homemaker’s Challenge blog. Not only is it a wonderful way to keep busy on a quiet winter afternoon, it just might save you some cash on your heating bills.

Materials

piece of fabric (Scraps will work, depending on size of door or window.)

needle and thread, or a sewing machine

bag of inexpensive rice

Step 1: Determine fabric length. Measure your door or window, and add 1 inch to the final measurement to allow for end seams. An adequate average width is usually about 9 inches, depending on how thick you desire the finished product to be.

Step 2: Sew the tube. Cut the fabric and fold it in half lengthwise, with the wrong side facing out. Sew a 1/4-inch seam around two sides, leaving one short end open.

Step 3: Fill the tube. Turn the material right-side out. Fill the tube with rice, leaving 1 to 2 inches at the top so you have room to seal it.

Step 4: Stitch closed. Tuck in the ends of the opening, and hand-stitch it to keep the rice securely inside.

Place your stopper against the bottoms of drafty doors and windows to keep your home toasty warm.